British heavyweight Anthony Joshua can challenge for a world title next summer, says his promoter Eddie Hearn.
Twenty-five-year-old Joshua, unbeaten in 14 fights, stopped Gary Cornishlast Saturday to win the Commonwealth title.
"He can win those title fights now but it has to be the right time," Hearn told BBC Sport.
"He will get there but I would say wait until summer 2016, which will probably give us another five fights until he is ready to challenge for a world title."
Hearn added: "I've never seen a fighter where the path is so clear.
"All he has to do is keep training and keep winning, and then nothing will stand in his way."
Joshua, who stopped Cornish in 97 seconds, has not boxed beyond three rounds since turning professional after winning a gold medal at the London 2012 Olympics.
Hearn said "you have to pay an absolute fortune" to find opponents willing to fight Joshua.
"He does need to go some rounds but that is not his fault," Hearn said.
"I don't think there will be many that will give him the rounds he needs."
Joshua faces fellow Londoner Dillian Whyte, who beat him in the amateur ranks, on 12 December at London's O2 Arena for the Commonwealth and vacant British title.
Hearn said: "They don't like each other so the build-up to that fight is going to be huge."
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